Legal language can feel like a foreign tongue. This plain-English glossary covers terms you'll meet again and again in everyday legal situations.

Going to court

  • Plaintiff: the party who brings a lawsuit.
  • Defendant: the party being sued or charged.
  • Subpoena: an order to appear or produce evidence.
  • Discovery: the pre-trial exchange of evidence between parties.
  • Verdict: the decision reached; the judgment is the court's formal order.

Contracts and agreements

  • Consideration: something of value exchanged that supports a contract.
  • Breach: failing to fulfill contract terms.
  • Indemnity: a promise to cover certain losses or liabilities.
  • Liability: legal responsibility for something.

Everyday rights

  • Statute of limitations: the deadline to bring a claim.
  • Negligence: failing to take reasonable care, causing harm.
  • Due process: fair treatment and procedure under the law.
  • Power of attorney: authority for someone to act on your behalf.
Knowing the vocabulary won't make you a lawyer, but it helps you understand documents, ask better questions and feel less lost in legal situations.

Resolving disputes

  • Mediation: a neutral helps parties reach their own agreement.
  • Arbitration: a neutral decides the dispute, often bindingly.
  • Settlement: resolving a claim by agreement instead of trial.

The bottom line

A little legal vocabulary goes a long way. Bookmark this as a quick reference for everyday situations.

General information only, not legal advice. Definitions are simplified and can vary by jurisdiction.